Question 264 Rules of the Road

The correct answer is C) maintain course and speed. In a crossing situation, the stand-on vessel is required to maintain its course and speed under both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS) and the Inland Navigation Rules. This is because the give-way vessel has the responsibility to take action to avoid a collision, while the stand-on vessel should continue on its course to allow the give-way vessel to maneuver as needed. The other options are incorrect because changing course or speed (A), crossing ahead of the other vessel (B), or passing astern (D) would violate the stand-on vessel's duty to maintain its course and speed in a crossing situation.